FAQs for Customers
This section answers the most common questions customers have about posting jobs, hiring experts, and managing projects on Hire Local.
1. How do I post a job?
To post a job:
- Sign in to your customer account
- Go to your Dashboard and click “Post a Job”
- Fill in the job title, description, budget, location, and deadline
- Click Submit to publish the job
2. Can I invite specific experts to apply?
Yes. Once your job is posted, you can:
- Browse expert profiles in your chosen category
- Click “Invite to Job” on any expert’s profile
- They’ll receive an invite and can choose to apply
3. How do I choose the right expert?
Look at the expert’s:
- Profile and service description
- Star rating and reviews
- Completed jobs
- Response time and availability
- Pricing and location
You can also message them to ask questions before hiring.
4. How do I communicate with experts?
Use the in-platform Messaging feature to chat safely. Go to your Messages tab from the dashboard. You’ll be notified when a new message arrives.
5. What happens after I hire someone?
- You’ll be prompted to make payment (job amount + 5% fee)
- The job moves to “In Progress”
- The expert completes the work
- You confirm the job is done
- The expert receives payment
- You can then leave a review
6. Can I cancel a job after hiring someone?
Yes — but only before the work has started. Go to the job page and click “Cancel Job”. If work has already started, contact support to explain the reason for cancellation.
7. How do I leave a review?
After a job is marked Completed, you’ll see a “Leave a Review” button on the job page. Rate the expert and write a short comment about your experience.
8. What if an expert isn’t responding?
Try sending a follow-up message first. If they don’t reply after a reasonable time (24–48 hours), go to the job page and click “Report a Problem.” Our support team will step in if needed.
9. What if I’m not happy with the expert’s work?
You can try resolving it directly with the expert through messaging. If that doesn’t work, click “Report a Problem” and open a dispute. Our support team will review the case.
10. Do I have to pay before the job starts?
Yes. Payment is collected upfront and held securely by Hire Local. Funds are only released to the expert after you confirm the job is complete.